Doesn't look right to me. Where is the AC input? It should go to the junction of the diodes with opposite connections. That is the DC comes from the pair of anodes, and pair of cathodes joined and the AC goes in the other pair where an anode and cathode are joined.

Doesn't look right to me. Where is the AC input? It should go to the junction of the diodes with opposite connections. That is the DC comes from the pair of anodes, and pair of cathodes joined and the AC goes in the other pair where an anode and cathode are joined.

Draw us a schematic of what you are trying to make.

ac input is the black and red wires. Though I think it doesn't matter with AC...?

this is what I am trying to buildhttps://www.dropbox.com/s/gn5mij3fa0d2v4x/Screenshot%202013-12-08%2014.39.12.png

Hi, your final attempt is correct, the diagram has pos and neg transposed but your protoboard layout is correct.

Note use colours other than red black for AC, make it a general rule Red is positive and Black is Negative or gnd, when you get more and more components involved and more and more wiring, a rule of thumb for colours will help.

The pos and neg signs on the diode diagram show anode and cathode connections to the diode, not the output polarity of the rectifier.

Your proto layout has the connection of the two cathodes as the positive output, the connections of the anode junctions as the negative output, this is correct.

FYI - you can buy a bridge rectifier that has 4 diodes in one package with 4 terminals. Building one yourself is a good learning experience, but I can't remember the last time I built built one.

Also, it's a good idea to "derate" you components. The voltage rating on your 1N4007 is fine, but at 1 Amp, you are pushing it to it's limit. When you first power-on, you will likely get quit a bit more than 1A of "inrush" current as the capacitor charges-up. Your diodes will probably survive, but it's good to have some safety margin. (I haven't checked the specs, but they probably can withstand more current for a short time.)

FYI - you can buy a bridge rectifier that has 4 diodes in one package with 4 terminals. Building one yourself is a good learning experience, but I can't remember the last time I built built one.

Also, it's a good idea to "derate" you components. The voltage rating on your 1N4007 is fine, but at 1 Amp, you are pushing it to it's limit. When you first power-on, you will likely get quit a bit more than 1A of "inrush" current as the capacitor charges-up. Your diodes will probably survive, but it's good to have some safety margin. (I haven't checked the specs, but they probably can withstand more current for a short time.)

ahh, wish I would have known that! it was indeed good learning experience though.

Electronic Technician, Electronic Engineering Technician
I love to build things. Test equipment, replica and original sci fi props and costume pieces, and whatever else I feel like at the time. I have an Ultimaker and a 3D engraver. I rarely put a kit tog